Short Inca Trail Trek: hike to Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate (2 Days)

Early departure from your hotel in Cusco to reach the Sacred Valley and board the train at Ollantaytambo to KM 104, the exclusive starting point of the short Inca Trail.
Your trek begins with the discovery of the Inca site of Chachabamba, nestled in lush vegetation. After about 3 hours of hiking in the cloud forest, you reach the spectacular archaeological complex of Wiñayhuayna, famous for its dozens of agricultural terraces forming an amphitheater.
The ascent continues to Inti Punku (the Sun Gate), a former checkpoint offering an unforgettable first panoramic view of Machu Picchu.
You then take a bus down to the village of Aguas Calientes.

Distance: 12 km
Elevation: +800 m / -575 m
Maximum altitude: 2,730 m

Night: Sacred Stone Boutique in a standard room.

Early in the morning, you take the shuttle from the main avenue of Aguas Calientes to climb to the entrance of the archaeological site.
You enjoy a complete guided tour of Machu Picchu, exploring the history, temples, and mysteries of this ancient perched city. After the tour, you begin a pleasant descent on foot to Aguas Calientes (about a 1.5-hour walk through the vegetation).
You also have the option to buy a bus ticket on-site to go back down. You then take the panoramic train to Ollantaytambo, followed by a shuttle to Wanchaq station in Cusco. A private transfer drops you off at your hotel to conclude this Andean experience.